NHTSA Seeks Feedback on Simpler Tire Quality Grading Reports
Published Date: 4/8/2026
Notice
Summary
NHTSA is asking for public feedback on updating the rules about how tire makers share quality info for their brands. About 45 manufacturers, covering 160 tire brands, will submit this info, but the update actually cuts down the paperwork time. If you have thoughts, speak up by June 8, 2026—this keeps tire info clear and easy to understand without extra hassle.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Tire Makers Face Annual Testing, Labeling Costs
If you make or own passenger car tire brands sold in the U.S., you must grade tires for treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance, mold grades into sidewalls, affix paper tread labels, update brochures, and submit grading information to NHTSA. NHTSA estimates about 45 manufacturers (covering about 160 brand names) will respond, with a total annual burden of 69,888 hours and approximately $35.1 million in non-labor costs each year.
Tire Quality Info Made Public for Shoppers
You can compare tire brands because NHTSA requires manufacturers to provide grades for treadwear, traction, and temperature and compiles that information for public release (including on NHTSA's website). The rule also requires grades on sidewalls, paper tread labels at point of sale, and inclusion in vehicle owner manuals so consumers can see tire performance information when shopping.
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